Cops bust inter-dist gang of auto-lifters, 3 arrested

Prayagraj: Pratapgarh police on Sunday busted an inter-district gang of auto-lifters and arrested three of its key operatives—Mohd Sajid alias Anta (20) of Jain Gali, Shivam Balmiki (22) of Purana Mall Godown, and Harikesh (38) of Mall Godown near Bhagwa railway crossing—when they were planning to dispose of stolen bikes.The police have also recovered three stolen bikes. Police said that Shivam and Mohd Sajid used to target parked bikes near railway stations and markets. The gang was operating in Prayagraj and Pratapgarh districts. The police are looking for to other gang members, Rikesh alias Motu and Salman. Four criminal cases were pending against Shivam Balmiki, said police.Meanwhile, Hathigaon police arrested a man, Suraj Singh alias Chotu (25) of Purejeet village. on charges of raping a woman on the pretext of marriage. He was booked under sections of BNS.tnn